Losing cell service is a drag. If you're particularly well-connected, it's downright terrifying.

A new company called goTenna offers a possible solution with its rugged portable antenna. The device uses VHF radio waves to communicate with other goTennas in range, allowing users to send text messages up to 160 characters or send their location using offline maps.

Here's what it's all about.

This is goTenna. It was designed to help people who get separated from their group on a camping trip, while traveling, or at a network-clogged concert.

goTenna

It connects to your phone via Bluetooth and a goTenna smartphone app. Due to the physics of radio waves, you can only chat with other people who have the device.

goTenna

When you send a message, you press the name of the person you want to chat with and a green check mark will appear if they're in range and their goTenna is on.

goTenna

Up to 10 people can use the same group chat.

goTenna

goTenna isn't perfect. The company says it still has trouble transmitting when there is rainy weather, radio interference, or physical obstacles (like mountains) in the way.

goTenna

The device should last over 24 hours on standby, but varies depending on how many messages you send. It charges by micro-USB in 1 to 2 hours.

goTenna

Recently, the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) voted goTenna one of its top-designed products of 2016.

goTenna

A pair of the devices sell for $199 on Amazon or goTenna's website. The company sells the product in pairs to ensure people always have a friend they can count on.